ACEP has two components: (1) wetlands easement and (2) agricultural land easement component. The wetlands easement component, for the most part, is a mirror of the Wetlands Reserve Program. The agricultural land easement component is intended to retain the purposes and functions of the Grassland Reserve Program and Farm and Ranch land Program.

For agricultural land easements, NRCS is providing funds to eligible entities to buy easements to protect working farms and ranches and conserve and protect grassland (which includes, rangeland, pastureland, and shrub land). NRCS may contribute up to 50% for the fair market value for purchase of the easement. If the NRCS determines the grasslands are of special environmental significant, NRCS may contribute up to 75% of the fair market value. NRCS has announced that it will give priority to proposals which present conversion of productive working land to non-agricultural uses and maximizes the protection of land devoted to growing the nation’s food supply. Additionally, the 2014 Farm Bill authorizes prioritization of applications which include grassland acres which will expire from the CRP within one year.

For wetlands easements, the USDA is providing funding to landowners to purchase long-term or permanents easements to restore, protect, and enhance wetland values and functions on eligible wetland which has been in agricultural production. NRCS will prioritize applications based upon the wetland easement’s potential for protecting and enhancing the habitat for migratory birds, fish, and other wildlife. Like agricultural easements, the 2014 Farm Bill authorizes prioritization of applications that include valuable wetland acres that will expire from CRP within one year and are likely to return to production.

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This website and blog is for educational and informational purposes only. Please contact legal counsel in your state (or contact us to determine if you qualify for Legal Aid of Nebraska's services) to discuss your specific questions.

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Legal Aid of Nebraska's Farm and Ranch Project is the oldest continuously operating farm legal services program in the United States. Due to a grant from the USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture Beginning Farmer and Rancher Development Program, Legal Aid of Nebraska has the opportunity to further its range of services to Nebraska and South Dakota farmers and ranchers.